Recipe Spotlight

Living in California, the “salad bowl” of the United States, I’m inspired to cook nutritious meals like cioppino. Whenever my friends and I get together, it's the main request. —Cleo Gonske, Redding, California

The word "panini" refers to a sandwich that is pressed and toasted. I love making paninis for my fellow teachers and friends. For potlucks, make several and cut them into fourths. The sandwiches work well as an appetizer for any occasion. —Martha Muellenberg, Vermillion, South Dakota

We love this easy yet elegant dish with its subtle flavor. Serve with a rice pilaf for a quick and easy gourmet meal! You can also use turkey cutlets, fish fillets or seafood. For a special meal, make it with chicken and shrimp.

“I found this recipe more than 15 years ago, and it has been requested every time I’ve been invited to a party,” writes Robin Klawinski of Eagle, Idaho. Since this dip is heated in the microwave instead of the oven, it can be ready to serve guests in mere minutes.

Santa himself couldn't resist sampling these savory bites chockfull of artichokes, onions and cheese. They're at the top of my family's list for every holiday gathering. And whether I serve them hot or cold, there are never any left!

If you're looking for something special for your holiday hors d' oeuvres table, this tangy out-of-the-ordinary appetizer will fill the bill. "It is so popular with my friends that I try to keep Brie cheese and artichoke hearts on hand at all time," relates Lucy Banks from Jackson, Mississippi.

Callie Berger’s delicious Company Swordfish will have fish aficionados and novices alike asking for more. The tender swordfish is topped with artichokes, sun-dried tomatoes and shallots, adding color and lively flavor. Best of all, the tasty entree is easy to prepare and takes just over 30 minutes from start to finish! “We’re not big fish eaters in my family, but the plates are always scraped clean when I make this recipe,” she writes from Diamond Springs, California. — Callie Berger, Diam

Tomatoes and roasted sweet red pepper pair up to create a fabulous base for this herb cream soup. Serve it as a first course at holiday dinners and you'll be amazed at the compliments you receive.—Doty Emory, Jasper, Georgia

“My sister-in-law brought this to a family party, and it went fast. It feeds a lot, plus it’s so colorful and pretty.” And it takes just 15 minutes to prep! —Gina Artrip, Mount Pleasant, South Carolina